Abhijeet A
New Delhi: Get ready for a seismic shift in the Indian motorcycle landscape. Hero MotoCorp has officially confirmed the impending launch of a brand-new Harley-Davidson 440cc motorcycle, slated to hit showrooms by September 2025. This isn’t just another bike; it’s the third chapter in the ambitious Hero-Harley saga and a direct assault on the retro-classic segment. Building on the foundation of the Harley-Davidson X440, this new model promises more style and highway prowess. But the question on every enthusiast’s lips is stark: can this new American contender, built with Indian hands, finally dethrone the undisputed king, the Royal Enfield Classic 350, and fend off the charge from the formidable Triumph Speed 400?
Key Features at a Glance
| Specification | Upcoming Harley-Davidson 440 (Expected) |
| Engine | 440cc, Air-Oil Cooled, Single-Cylinder |
| Max Power | ~27 BHP @ 6000 RPM |
| Max Torque | ~38 Nm @ 4000 RPM |
| Gearbox | 6-Speed with Assist & Slipper Clutch |
| Brakes | Disc brakes front and rear with dual-channel ABS |
| Ex-Showroom Price | Expected to be above ₹2,40,000 |
Price Breakdown: What You’ll Actually Pay
While the official price is under wraps, the new Harley-Davidson 440 will be positioned as a more premium offering than its sibling, the X440, which starts at ₹2.40 lakh (ex-showroom). We anticipate a strategic price point that places it squarely in the competitive premium cruiser segment.
Here are our estimated on-road prices for the upcoming Harley-Davidson 440 across major Indian metropolitan areas:
- Delhi: ₹2,75,000 – ₹2,90,000
- Mumbai: ₹2,85,000 – ₹3,00,000
- Bengaluru: ₹2,95,000 – ₹3,10,000
- Chennai: ₹2,80,000 – ₹2,95,000
(Disclaimer: These are estimated on-road prices based on market analysis and may vary based on the final ex-showroom price, RTO charges, insurance, and optional accessories.)
New Harley-Davidson 440 vs. Its Biggest Rivals
The new Harley isn’t riding into an empty arena. It’s a gladiator pit where legends are forged and challengers are tested. Here’s a look at how the upcoming American-Indian cruiser is expected to measure up against its key rivals.
| Feature | Harley-Davidson 440 (New) | Royal Enfield Classic 350 | Triumph Speed 400 | Jawa 350 |
| Price (Ex-Showroom) | Above ₹2.40 Lakh (est.) | From ₹1.97 Lakh | From ₹2.51 Lakh | From ₹1.99 Lakh |
| Engine (CC) | 440cc (Air-Oil Cooled) | 349cc (Air-Oil Cooled) | 398cc (Liquid-Cooled) | 334cc (Liquid-Cooled) |
| Power (BHP) | ~27 BHP | 20.2 BHP | 39.5 BHP | 22.26 BHP |
| Mileage (ARAI/Owner) | ~35 kmpl (est.) | ~35-41 kmpl | ~30 kmpl | ~30 kmpl |
| Key Feature/Weakness | Feature: High torque & Harley badge. Weakness: Unproven long-term reliability. | Feature: Unbeatable brand legacy & service network. Weakness: Outdated power figures. | Feature: Class-leading performance & premium finish. Weakness: Highest price in the segment. | Feature: Authentic retro styling & peppy engine. Weakness: Inconsistent service experience. |
Our Verdict: Who Should Buy It?
The upcoming Harley-Davidson 440 is poised to be a game-changer, but it’s not for everyone. This motorcycle is for the modern Indian rider who has always aspired to the Harley-Davidson lifestyle but was deterred by exorbitant prices. It’s for the individual who craves a torque-rich, comfortable cruiser for both city commutes and long highway hauls, and wants to stand out from the sea of Royal Enfields.
If you value strong road presence, the iconic American brand name, and a motor that delivers effortless pulling power from low RPMs, this new Harley should be at the very top of your list. It promises a more engaging and powerful ride than the Classic 350, with the added benefit of modern features like a 6-speed gearbox and slipper clutch.
However, if your primary concern is an expansive and proven service network, or if you’re a first-time buyer on a tighter budget, the Royal Enfield Classic 350 remains a safe and logical choice. For those who prioritize sheer performance and are willing to stretch their budget, the Triumph Speed 400 offers an unbeatable power-to-price ratio. The new Harley-Davidson 440 carves a niche for itself as the quintessential “aspirational-yet-attainable” cruiser.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Will the new Harley-Davidson 440 be better for touring than the Royal Enfield Classic 350?
Yes, on paper, it should be. With a more powerful 440cc engine delivering higher torque and a 6-speed gearbox, the new Harley is expected to offer more relaxed and capable highway performance compared to the Classic 350’s 5-speed setup.
How does the Harley-Davidson X440 differ from this new upcoming model?
While they share the same 440cc platform, the new model is expected to feature different styling, possibly leaning towards a more classic cruiser or roadster design, and may come with additional features or different ergonomics to justify a higher price point and appeal to a different sub-segment of buyers.
Is the Triumph Speed 400 a better bike than the upcoming Harley-Davidson 440?
“Better” is subjective. The Triumph Speed 400 is a performance-oriented roadster with significantly more horsepower, making it quicker and more agile. The Harley-Davidson 440 focuses on a relaxed, torque-heavy cruiser experience. If speed and handling are your priorities, the Triumph is the clear winner. If a comfortable, muscular cruiser with a legendary brand name is your goal, the Harley will be the more appealing option.
Where will the new Harley-Davidson 440 be sold and serviced?
The bike will be sold and serviced through Hero MotoCorp’s premium dealership network, which also handles the existing Harley-Davidson X440. This leverages Hero’s extensive reach across India, making ownership more accessible than traditional high-end motorcycle brands.
